Mastering Marble: 5 Things to Know About Marble Surfaces

January 17, 2017

No building material speaks of longevity like natural stone, and no natural stone is as elegant, timeless, or classically beautiful as marble. Hence, it’s no surprise that marble is one of the top choices when it comes to selecting a stone surface that is both stylish and durable.

If you are looking to upgrade your home or office space with natural stone flooring, countertops, or walls, marble is a terrific option to consider. Here are 5 things to know about marble that may help you narrow down your decision.

1. It has a rich history

Part of marble’s lure is its romantic history, as it has been used by artists, decorators, and architects for thousands of years. From the rich, radiant red floors of the basilica of Saint Paul in Rome to the walls of the Palace of Versailles and Michaelangelo’s perfectly smooth David, marble holds places in some of the most significant cultural and architectural sites in history. Not all trends live through centuries, but marble is one that has, thanks to its timeless elegance. After all, who wouldn’t want the same material used on the walls of the Palace of Versailles in their own spaces?

2. It’s not the same as granite

While marble and granite are both natural stones, they vary in formation, appearance, and durability. Granite is an igneous rock formed deep within the earth when minerals crystallize. This often gives it a granularappearance. Marble, on the other hand, is metamorphosed limestone and is found in large scale patterns. Because the largest component of marble is calcium, it is sensitive to acids like tomato juice, lemon juice, and vinegar. This makes granite a bit more durable than marble.

3. It comes in many different types

One of the greatest things about marble is the wide range of options and possibilities when it comes to color and pattern. Depending on the type of marble, you can add sophistication to a kitchen or an extra touch of artistic flair to a foyer. Some of the most popular types of marble include:

Crema Marfil Marble: Many tonal variations but light-beige and yellow with veins varying in intensity and irregularity are most common.

4. It can be used in many ways

Marble can be and has been used in many different applications for centuries. Today, it is primarily used in architecture - both in and on buildings. Marble is most commonly used for flooring. The look of white marble with gray or black veins is iconic, sophisticated, and classic.

However, while flooring is the the most popular use of marble, it is not the only use. Marble stairs, for example, provide a practical alternative to hardwood flooring or carpet - which quickly show wear and tear. Marble walls are also very trendy and are revered by royalty and nobles in Europe and some parts of Asia. Marble countertops create a bold fashion statement and are relatively easy to maintain as long as they are sealed frequently.

5. It is affordable

While some of the more luxurious types of marble can be rather expensive, Carrara marble is one of the cheapest natural stones available due to its gray color (as opposed to Calcatta’s bright white color) and porous nature. Hence, you can still get the glamorous look of marble with a modest budget.